Barbara Jean Vanats, 84, of Monaca, passed away on February 23rd, 2025, at Celebration Villa of Chippewa. Her last two days were filled with celebration, joy, and the loving presence of her family.
She was born in New Castle and lived the majority of her life in Monaca. Barbara was a daughter of the late Keith Thomas and Ella Gertrude (Locke) Ely. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands Stephen Phillips and Carl Vanats, her brothers, Chuck (Rita) Ely, Keith Thomas ‘Tom’ (Barb) Ely and Ralph Ely, and her sisters: Pearl Louise Ely, Beatrice (William) Knowlson, Mary Lou (Jack) Jeffers, and Sandy Hunter.
Barbara was a devoted mother and is survived by her loving children: Deborah (Mike) McDonald, Stephen Phillips, Alex (Lonnie) Phillips, Daniel (Tammie) Phillips, and William (Teresa) Phillips; as well as sisters Rosetta Baker and Beverly Crisman. She was a proud grandmother to 11 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy and pride to her life.
After dedicating her life to raising her five children, Barbara entered the workforce, taking on various part-time jobs. It was in these roles that she continued to touch the lives of many, making friends wherever she went. Her radiant smile, kindness, generosity, humor, and loving nature were her trademarks, and she was always ready to welcome new friends into her life.
She had a passion for playing cards and games, and she cherished the time spent with her family above all else. These activities were not merely hobbies for Barbara; they were extensions of her warm, inviting personality and her way of nurturing the bonds she held so dear.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 26th from 2-8 p.m. at Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, where services will be held on Thursday, February 27th at 10 a.m. with Reverend Dr. Richard Herbster officiating. Interment will follow in St John the Baptist Cemetery.
The family wishes to thank Pinnacle Hospice and Celebration Villa of Chippewa for the kindness and compassion that was shown to Barbara and her family.
To share online condolences, view Barbara’s video tribute, or get directions, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.